“Is Zinfandel the Ultimate Wine Pairing for BBQ Ribs?”

by Philin Blog, Zinfandelon Posted on

Is Zinfandel the Ultimate Wine Pairing for BBQ Ribs?

Is Zinfandel the Ultimate Wine Pairing for BBQ Ribs?

Table of Contents

Introduction

Barbecue ribs are a staple of summertime cookouts, and a great wine pairing can elevate the experience to a whole new level. But with so many different wine types out there, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this blog post, we’ll explore the question of whether zinfandel is the ultimate wine pairing for BBQ ribs.

What Is Zinfandel?

Zinfandel is a red wine grape that is primarily grown in California. The wine is known for its bold, fruit-forward flavors, and high alcohol content. Some of the characteristics of zinfandel include:

  • Medium to full body
  • High tannins
  • High acidity
  • Flavors of blackberry, raspberry, and spice

BBQ Ribs and Wine Pairings

When it comes to pairing wine with BBQ ribs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the wine should be able to stand up to the bold, smoky flavors of the ribs. Additionally, the wine should have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the meat, and enough tannins to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

So which wines pair well with BBQ ribs? Some popular choices include:

  • Malbec
  • Zinfandel
  • Syrah/Shiraz
  • Merlot

Why Zinfandel Is a Great Pairing with BBQ Ribs

Out of all the wines on the list above, zinfandel is perhaps the most complementary to BBQ ribs. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Rich and bold flavors: Just like BBQ ribs, zinfandel is known for its bold, fruit-forward flavors. These flavors can stand up to the smoky, savory taste of the ribs.
  • High tannins: The high tannin content of zinfandel helps to cut through the rich and fatty meat, balancing out the flavors and preventing the wine from feeling too heavy.
  • Acidity: Zinfandel has a good level of acidity, which helps to balance out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
  • Alcohol content: Zinfandel typically has a high alcohol content, which can help to enhance the flavors of the meat and reduce any perception of spiciness.

Best Zinfandel for BBQ Ribs

If you’re looking to try out zinfandel as a BBQ rib pairing, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a bottle:

  • Look for a full-bodied wine: Zinfandel is a full-bodied wine, which means it has more weight and intensity to stand up to the bold flavors of the meat.
  • Consider the level of tannins: As mentioned above, the high tannin content of zinfandel is one of the things that makes it such a good pairing for BBQ ribs. Look for a wine with medium to high tannins.
  • Take the alcohol content into account: Zinfandel typically has a higher alcohol content than some other red wines, which can affect how the wine pairs with food. Look for a wine with an alcohol content of around 14-16%.

Why Zinfandel is the Perfect Wine for BBQ Ribs

Overall, zinfandel is an excellent pairing choice for BBQ ribs. Its bold and assertive flavors, high tannin content, and good acidity make it an ideal match for the rich and savory flavors of the meat. However, it’s important to select the right bottle of zinfandel to ensure the perfect pairing. Look for a full-bodied wine with medium to high tannins and an alcohol content of around 14-16%, and you’ll be sure to have a match made in heaven!

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different wine with my BBQ ribs?

A: Absolutely! While we think zinfandel is the ultimate pairing for BBQ ribs, there are plenty of other wine types that can work well too. As mentioned above, malbec, syrah/shiraz, and merlot are all good options to consider.

Q: What if I don’t like red wine?

A: If you’re not a fan of red wine, there are still plenty of other beverages that can pair well with BBQ ribs. Some good options include beer, sweet tea, and lemonade.

Q: What if I prefer a sweeter wine?

A: While zinfandel is not typically considered a sweet wine, there are some varieties that can have a higher residual sugar content. Look for a zinfandel labeled as “late harvest” or “dessert” to get a sweeter option.

Image Credit: Pexels

Post author

Avatar photoWritten by